Date: March 12, 2026
Reporter: Mr Johnson
Members of the party in several local government areas have accused some influential figures within the Edo APC of altering the ward congress lists in order to impose preferred loyalists as party executives. The allegations have triggered protests and deepened divisions among party members ahead of internal party activities.
According to party members who spoke about the situation, the lists originally submitted by grassroots members were allegedly replaced with new ones containing different names without the consent of local party stakeholders. This development has reportedly angered many members who claim the process undermines democratic participation within the party.
The ward congresses are a critical stage in the internal structure of political parties in Nigeria, as they determine the leadership at the grassroots level and influence the selection of delegates for higher party congresses and future elections.
Some APC members in Edo State have therefore called on the party’s national leadership to intervene and ensure transparency in the process. They warned that failure to address the allegations could further destabilize the party in the state.
Political observers note that internal disputes over party structures and delegate lists are common in Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly during periods leading up to party congresses and major elections.
As of the time of reporting, leaders of the Edo State chapter of the APC had not issued an official statement addressing the allegations of manipulation.
However, party members involved in the dispute insist that the issue must be resolved quickly to prevent further fragmentation within the party and maintain unity ahead of future political contests in the state.